F1 Academy Chief Susie Wolff Takes Legal Action Against FIA Following Controversial Accusations

Susie Wolff - F1 Grand Prix of Great Britain

(Photo : Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) NORTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - Susie Wolff walks in the Paddock prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Great Britain at Silverstone Circuit on July 09, 2023 in Northampton, England.

Susie Wolff, the Managing Director of the F1 Academy, has filed a criminal complaint against the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile) following controversial accusations made by the motorsport governing body in December 2023.

Late last year, the FIA initiated an investigation in response to a magazine report suggesting that Susie Wolff's marriage to Toto Wolff, who serves as the team principal and co-owner of Mercedes-AMG, along with their respective business roles, posed a conflict of interest.

The implication is that a remark made by Toto during a recent team principal meeting, seemingly based on information accessible only to Formula One Management, triggered other individuals to voice their grievances.

The F1 Academy, an all-female racing series, is operated by the Formula One Management.

However, the FIA subsequently declared the discontinuation of the inquiry a mere two days after its initiation. In its official statement, the FIA expressed contentment with the measures put in place within Formula 1 to avoid such conflict.

Susie Wolff upset by FIA's lack of accountability

In a statement shared on her social media accounts on Wednesday, March 20, Wolff expressed her frustration with the FIA's lack of transparency and accountability regarding the inquiry.

"I feel more than ever it is important to stand up, call our improper behaviour and make sure people are held to account," the 41-year-old wrote.

Wolff proceeded to file the criminal complaint in the French courts.